You should understand how calcium can wreak havoc in a cesspool. If you are not familiar with this, you could mistake the calcium here is like the calcium present in milk or other dairy products. The calcium referred to here is calcium sulfoaluminate. Calcium sulfoaluminate or ettringite is a yellow or colorless mineral that crystallizes and turns white when it is dehydrated. Specific brands used in the construction of cesspools could either tolerate or surrender to the damages of sulfuric acid that forms ettringite. It all starts with the anaerobic digestion of the resident thiocillus bacteria. The digestion produces hydrogen sulfide gas that accumulates in the headspace above the cesspool water line. The gas interacts with oxygen. This interaction results to sulfuric acid that forms the ettringite. Calcium sulfoaluminate is found on the concrete reinforcement of your cesspit. This is the worst form of deterioration that your cesspool could experience. If you have the privilege of choosing which brand to use on your cesspit, you should select the one that could tolerate sulfuric acid. This would save you many extra costs including a complete cesspool replacement.
Turning your cesspool into an aerobic system will help keep it from becoming a party place for calcium sulfoaluminate. Once you see ettringite forming on your cesspool, this means you have a very deteriorated wastewater treatment system. Placing an efficient aeration system with the help of your septic expert will lengthen the lifespan of your cesspool system. A reliable aeration system provides high amounts of oxygen into the cesspool. The oxygen occupies the headspace that hydrogen sulfide gas is supposed to fill. If the space above the water line is already occupied, there will be no chance for the hydrogen sulfide gas to interact with oxygen to produce sulfuric acid. In the end, ettringite will not be formed anymore. Your cesspool will remain safe from deterioration. You should make sure that the aeration system you have installed is regularly inspected so that it could remain as optimal as your cesspool. If you neglect your aeration system, clogging from calcium sulfoaluminate accumulation will ensue.
Your cesspool is your responsibility as a homeowner. Being aware of ettringite formation is a huge step in prolonging your wastewater system’s existence. Aside from ettringite, other substances lead to cesspool clogging. Invasive root systems belong to higher plants that need consistent sources of nutrients and water. Since they are planted in your property, the most accessible source of sustenance for them is your cesspool. The roots grow into the perforations and gaps in your cesspool. They form walls of roots that easily get what they need by just as easily blocks the normal flow of wastewater treatment. Using harsh chemicals for cleaning the house is also a cause for cesspool clogging. The harsh chemical products kill the resident bacteria that break down the solid waste particles. If bacteria are killed, no wastewater treatment can be performed. The solid waste particles will just stay in the cesspool and block the system. Opt for eco-friendly products that will not harm the environment and your cesspool.
Soil compaction damages the components of your cesspool, allowing debris and rainwater to enter the system. Allowing debris into your system can and will aid in clogging the cesspool. The cracks and crushed parts also bring forth leaks. These leaks bring forth wastewater backups, flooding, and overflows. Soil compaction is caused by the heavy weight of vehicles and structures placed over your cesspool. Do not turn your cesspool area into a parking lot, a storage facility, or a driveway. Also, make sure to maintain regular pump outs to eliminate the accumulated sludge in the cesspool.
Calcium sulfoaluminate or ettringite is the worst form of cesspool deterioration. Talk to your septic expert about proper maintenance and care. Your cesspool may be a traditional means to treat wastewater but it is more practical to maintain it than replace it with a modern septic system. It may cost you a little extra but you will have a cesspool that should last a lifetime.